First off—congratulations! Getting accepted into one PA school is a huge achievement, but receiving multiple acceptances? That’s next-level. You’ve worked hard to get here, and now you have a different kind of challenge: choosing the best PA school for you. An excellent “problem” to have!

But if you’re feeling a little stressed about making the “right” decision, you’re not alone. This is one of the biggest choices of your career, and you want to make sure you pick the best fit for your learning style, goals, and future.

So, how do you decide? Let’s break it down.

1. Consider the Cost: Tuition, Fees, and Living Expenses

PA school is an investment, and the cost can vary widely between programs. Take the time to compare:

• Tuition & fees – Public vs. private schools can make a big difference. Some out-of-state programs charge significantly more than in-state tuition.
• Cost of living – A school in a big city might come with high rent and expenses, while a program in a smaller town could be more affordable.
• Financial aid & scholarships – Does the program offer scholarships, grants, or assistantships?

Pro tip: Try calculating the total cost of each program (tuition + living expenses) to get a clearer picture. A lower tuition might not be the best deal if you’re living in an expensive area.

2. Location, Location, Location

You’re going to be spending at least two years of your life here—does the location fit your lifestyle and goals?

Think about:

• Proximity to family/support system – Do you want to be close to home, or are you open to moving far away?
• Weather & climate – If you hate cold winters, a school up north might not be ideal.
• Job opportunities – Some states have more opportunities for PAs after graduation, and some schools have strong connections with local hospitals and clinics.

Pro tip: If you’re considering staying in the area after graduation, check out PA job prospects and salaries in that state.

3. Curriculum & Learning Style

Not all PA programs teach the same way! Look at:

• Traditional vs. problem-based learning (PBL) – Some schools focus on lectures, while others emphasize case-based learning. Which suits you best?
• Cadaver lab vs. virtual anatomy – Some programs have full cadaver labs, while others rely on virtual anatomy models.
• Rotation structure – Do they offer early clinical exposure? Are there elective rotations in specialties that interest you?

Pro tip: Check the program’s attrition rate (how many students fail out) and PANCE pass rate (how many students pass the PA board exam on their first attempt).

4. Clinical Rotations: Your Future Training Matters

Your clinical year is when you’ll get real-world, hands-on experience. Ask yourself:

• Where are the clinical sites located? Do you have to move for rotations or travel long distances?
• Do they offer strong rotations in your areas of interest? If you’re passionate about surgery, does the program have good surgical rotations?
• How many electives (if any) do you have the opportunity to participate in? What about international rotations if that’s your jam?

Pro tip: Research the program’s clinical rotation curriculum. Talk to current students about their clinical experiences—are they happy with their rotations?

5. Reputation & Networking Opportunities

While all accredited PA programs will prepare you to be a PA, some schools have stronger reputations and better networking opportunities. Consider:

• Alumni connections – Do graduates land jobs easily? Are they well-connected in the PA community?
• Faculty experience – Are there well-respected professors and clinicians teaching at the school?
• Hospital affiliations – Is the program connected to large teaching hospitals or specialized medical centers?

Pro tip: A school with a strong alumni network and job placement support can make a big difference after graduation.

6. Gut Feeling: The “Vibe” of the School

Sometimes, the intangibles make all the difference. Think back to your interview day—what was your gut feeling?

• Did you feel welcomed and supported?
• Did you connect with current students and faculty?
• Did the program feel like a place you could see yourself thriving?
• If you are faith-based, where are you feeling called to?

Pro tip: If you’re torn between two schools, reach out to current students and ask about their experience. They’ll give you an unfiltered perspective.

Final Steps: Making Your Decision

Once you’ve weighed all these factors, here’s what to do next:

• Make a pros and cons list – Seeing everything on paper can help you visualize the best choice.
• Talk it out – Discuss your options with mentors, family, or friends who know you well.
• Revisit the school’s resources – Look at their student support services, faculty availability, and extracurricular opportunities.
• Listen to your gut – At the end of the day, go with the school that feels right and aligns best with your goals.

The Bottom Line

You can’t make a “wrong” choice here. Every program you got into believes in you and your ability to succeed. No matter which school you pick, you’re going to be a PA—and that’s what truly matters.

If you’re still feeling stuck, consider reaching out to current students at each program or scheduling a call with a faculty member. Sometimes, a quick conversation can give you the clarity you need.

No matter where you go, your future as a PA is bright!